We always say that nothing transforms more quickly and easily than paint, and that goes for fireplaces, too. If you have outdated red brick on your fireplace, a couple of coats of white or black paint can create something that’s a showstopper instead of an eyesore.

A lighter touch than paint, whitewashing can lighten up a dark fireplace and give it new style. “Seems like just yesterday that the red brick in your family room looked perfect, but tastes change with time,” said Bob Vila. “Now you think it’s a little too dark and a little too red for the space. Your gut tells you it’s time for a change, but you’re intimidated by the thought of demolition and renovation. Rather than reach for the sledgehammer, grab a rag and a brush instead, and give your room a bright new look. While painting over brick with 100 percent latex paint will give the brick a solid, opaque color, whitewashing mutes the brick’s natural color with a translucent finish. The technique preserves the bricks’ natural, random variations, depending on how much paint is applied and how each individual brick absorbs it.”

Yes, that sounds like a huge undertaking. But, you don’t need to be a stone mason to get an incredible look for your fireplace. Airstone is an innovative product that gives you the look of real stone.

“Their product looks just like real stone, but is easy to cut with a saw at home,” said Make Life Lovely. “You don’t have to have fancy equipment, call in an expert, or pay a ton of money for expensive natural stone.”

This marble-look adhesive paper covered up what used to be some pretty dated yellow ceramic tile. This application couldn’t be easier, but be sure to read the instructions and disclaimers carefully to make sure you’re using fire-safe products if you actually use your fireplace and it’s not just for show.

This typically involves some sort of demolition to create a smooth surface, and then the sky’s the limit. The timeframe can vary depending on how extensive the project is, and it might require an expert unless your DIY skills are stellar.

“A standard drywall installation with mantel and surround can be completed in two days,” said Forbes. “A custom mantel or more extensive ductwork or electrical installation can take five or six weeks.”